His father, also named Tony, said he received a call from his son’s cellphone at 1:21 a.m. On the other line was a doctor who dialed the number listed under “Dad.”

“He had a bright future,” Tony said. “Such a good kid. It’s just rough right now.”

The university has suspended the Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity. Barksdale would have turned 19 next month.

Barksdale grew up in Mont Vernon and graduated from Souhegan High School in 2012. He played football and basketball at the school. Students honored him by wearing his number, 42, on the court this week. The bleachers were filled with fans wearing Barksdale’s name.

“Uplifting, loving, joyful. That’s how my son was,” Tony said.

Barksdale was studying aeronautical engineering at Boston University, hoping to fly one day. His father said he grabs photographs, cries and prays for strength every morning.

“I hope other kids or parents are listening and watching and learning from this,” Tony said.

Tony said he misses his son.

“It’s rough,” he said. “I just wish I could have him back.”

Tony said an award his son won at Souhegan, The Coaches Award, has been retitled The Tony Barksdale Award. Organizers will hold a service to celebrate his life on Saturday at 9 a.m.

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